From Dream to Reality: The Journey of a First-Generation College Graduate
Determination and support can transform dreams into reality, a truth exemplified by Rosie Robles’ inspiring journey from a young aspirant with college dreams to a medical-surgical nurse. Robles, a first-generation student, embarked on an educational path that led her to a fulfilling career, aided by the All-In Milwaukee program.
Robles, a graduate from the Carmen Schools of Science & Technology, aspired to study at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Her academic journey was significantly bolstered by All-In Milwaukee, a program dedicated to helping high-potential, low-income students in Milwaukee access college education through financial aid and comprehensive support.
As Carmen’s valedictorian, Robles was accepted into UW-Madison, with All-In Milwaukee assisting her financially and providing essential guidance during her early college days. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected her academic performance and social life, Robles persevered. “It was during COVID, so I really struggled socially, and that kind of affected how I did academically,” she shared. This struggle led her to take a semester off for mental health reasons, during which she found solace and guidance from All-In Milwaukee advisors.
Deciding to continue her studies at Alverno College, Robles graduated with a nursing degree in December 2025. She attributes her success to the tailored support she received from her advisors, stating, “My advisors are the reason that I was able to graduate and be a nurse and now have this financial stability.” Robles currently applies her skills at Froedtert Hospital.
This week marks a significant milestone for All-In Milwaukee, as the organization announced receiving its largest donation to date. An $11 million gift from philanthropists Keith Mardak and Mary Vandenberg will enable the program to assist 500 new students over the next decade. Starting with the high school class of 2027, the initiative plans to support 50 new scholars each year from partner organizations, including the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee and other local educational institutions.
Allison Wagner, Executive Director of All-In Milwaukee, highlighted the comprehensive value the program offers beyond financial support. “All the while, they’re meeting one-on-one with their advisor, following our curriculum and participating in All-In Milwaukee cohort socials and our career development training,” Wagner explained, emphasizing the program’s goal to ensure students are degree-equipped and workforce-ready.
Mardak and Vandenberg’s support extends beyond scholarships, as they have also collaborated with various Milwaukee-area schools and organizations. They expressed their commitment to supporting Milwaukee’s youth, noting, “We believe deeply in helping young people in Milwaukee pursue higher education. What makes All-In Milwaukee so special is the comprehensive, wraparound support.”
The impact of All-In Milwaukee is evident, with 84% of its students graduating without debt and 91% remaining in Wisconsin post-graduation. The program currently accommodates 250 students annually, aiming to expand its reach to 1,000 students in the future.
Eibar Robledo, another beneficiary of the program, found the transition to college during the pandemic challenging. The guidance and networking opportunities provided by All-In Milwaukee played a crucial role in his successful shift to a public relations career. “It’s not even the financial piece, it’s more that you have the support and have people that are always in your corner rooting for you,” Robledo remarked, highlighting the program’s supportive environment.
